How to freeze strawberries properly and become a berry-hoarder

As lovers and purveyors of fresh country produce, we understand that nothing comes close to that fresh strawberry look, smell and, more importantly, taste.

However, many of you visit our Beerenberg Family Farm strawberry patch in Hahndorf during the strawberry season to pick your own but often pick too many to eat in a few days.

We call this “eyes bigger than your stomach” syndrome! It’s easy to fall into the trap of “just one more tray” because they are so yummy.

But did you know that you can freeze strawberries at their peak after picking (or buying) and keep them in your freezer for year-round treats?

We found this fabulous article by Joe Sevier from Epicurious.com that explains how to freeze strawberries perfectly, so we thought we’d share his tips.

To read the full article, click here.

How to freeze strawberries perfectly

Step 1 - Clean the Strawberries

If you're stashing berries in the refrigerator to eat within a few days, hold off on washing them until just before you plan to use them. (Introducing moisture to strawberries and then letting them sit around in the fridge is a recipe for mould.) For freezing berries, go ahead and rinse them as soon as you get home. Then spread them onto paper towels or kitchen cloth to gently dry them.

Step 2 - Hull the Strawberries

Having put in the work to procure the best strawberries, you don't want to waste a bit. Instead of simply slicing off the top, hull the berries.

Step 3 - Slice the Strawberries

Most recipes involving fresh strawberries will likely instruct you to halve or quarter the fruit. Halved berries are easier on your blender, too, in case you love making smoothies.

Step 4 - Freeze the Strawberries

Use multiple trays or stack them by placing a piece of parchment paper on top of the first layer, making the second layer of berries on top. Place the berries in your freezer for at least an hour and up to four hours. The more layers you have on your tray, the longer they'll take to harden fully.

Step 5 - Store the Strawberries

Once the berries are frozen through, scoop them into silicone or plastic freezer bags. Squeeze as much air as possible from the bags, seal them tightly, then place them in the back of your freezer. Try to avoid placing them in the freezer door, where the temperature can fluctuate and cause the berries to form ice crystals as they transition, over time, from mildly frozen to totally frozen and back. For optimum flavour, use your frozen berries within six months.